3rd Gen advice

[Cal2]

Hi guys,

I'm looking to buy a 3rd Gen Surf - what kind of things should I be looking out for and are there any common problems with them?

i know the 2nd gen 3 litres diesels can have head probs - did they get this sorted on the 3rd Gen?

If not, is there anything I can do to reduce the chance of problems. i guess I'm looking at spending around £6k and will prob have to get from a dealer as I need to trade my VW in to get it.

Thanks for any advice you can give and sorry if I've missed similar posts - still trying to work my way through stuff!

Cheers,

Cal

[TonyN]

They are the same engine as the 2nd Gen 3.0, neither have the same issues as the 2.4's, any motor will run the risk of damage if it gets really hot, try to see if the seller has got rad seal in it, or rad damage/repair when looking over it.

Common issues are only small stuff, most need steering rack bushes, the odd rear axle seal.

Check the multi-mode 4wd works, all the fluids look good and go for it.

[plumb bob]

And check that all the hair dryer mounts and power points are in full working order.


























Well, somebody had to say it.

[TonyN]

Well, somebody had to say it.

And it had to be you!

3rd gens actually have a 2 pin US style 110v mains outlet in the rear luggage area on some models.

So ironically, you CAN run a hairdrier or shaver.

[Rob]

If its an older 3rd gen, check if the steering rack is leaking fluid (from either of the gaiters or from the valve where the steering shaft connects to it). And as Tony said, look for signs of diff oil around the rear brake drums and inside the wheels (leaky hub seal and poss worn wheel bearing).

[Woodzie]

And there is a emergency sissor pack and hair gel in the glove box

[Cal2]

So ironically, you CAN run a hairdrier

That'll cheer my lass up no end!

Thanks for the advice guys. Will hopefully go and see a couple of Surfs at the weekend.

Cheers

[Cal2]

Whilst I'm here and asking questions, I know the 3rd Gen Surfs are based on the Colorado/Prado - are they exactly the same - as in do they use same engine spec, suspension set up and brakes?

I've been to look at a couple of Colorado's but they weren't quite what I wanted, other than to drive, so my theory is that I will like the 3rd Gen Surf as much to drive but it will be more the type of vehicle I want (I don't need the 3rd row of seats for eg.).

Thanks again guys - I know I've got a lot to learn about Surfs, but am hoping I can get a vehicle that is as fun to drive as my old Disco was, without the need to get it welded up every 3 months!

[marky]

Also check for OIL around the rear drums as the axle seals tend to go.
Heres my VIDAL SASOON Model

[marky]

This maybe of some use regarding years & specs.
http://www.top4runners.com/ja/runhist31996.html

[Rob]

Whilst I'm here and asking questions, I know the 3rd Gen Surfs are based on the Colorado/Prado - are they exactly the same - as in do they use same engine spec, suspension set up and brakes?

The Colorado has taller/longer/stronger springs and shocks but its the same suspension system. The Colorado also uses disc brakes at the rear instead of drums.
All Colorados are permanent 4WD with the ability to lock the centre diff, and I think they all have locking rear diffs (not Prados from Japan though).
I have a feeling that they are all intercooled versions but I'm not 100% on that. Like the Surfs, the engines were eventually changed to the D4D direct injection 3.0 versions (around '99 I think).

[marky]

The SURF probably has more Import extras & you get to join the best FORUM

[Cal2]

Thanks for all the info and advice guys - always a pleasure to be on a helpful and friendly forum.

I do find it odd that Toyota based the 3rd Gen on the Colorado and then made it different as well. How do you find the braking with drums at the back and do you reckon it's possible/worth it to upgrade to discs? I spose you could do an axle swap from Colorado if you really wanted, but if they are v similar already it might be possible to change over to discs anyway? (I'm no mechanic so not a clue really!)

I would prob upgrade the suspension at some point anyway so am not too fussed about that, though again it is a bit of a disappointment in some respects.

Does the Surf have LSD in the back axle as standard then, or nothing?

Thanks again guys

[marky]

3RD GEN is based on the Landcruiser PRADO chassis with a different body.

[Cal2]

What do you reckon TonyN – is it relatively straight forward to put a Colorado/Prado back axle onto a 3rd Gen Surf so you get the disc brakes and locking diff?

Sorry if I've missed this - do the Surfs have LSD as standard in the rear diff?

Cheers!